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In this video Marija Rakic Dotti showcases her skills as a dancer alongside artist Dr Rehab Ras Romini.

Video by: Kamal Sami

Welcome to Layali Arts Center in Seef, Bahrain — a family hub where children, mothers, and communities grow side by side. Rooted in Bahrain’s tradition of storytelling and cultural exchange, Layali was created as a space where creativity meets confidence, and where every family can find a sense of belonging.

At Layali, we believe in nurturing both children and parents. Our two specialized studios — Studio A for movement and dance, and Studio B for arts, writing, and imagination — are designed to give families the unique opportunity to learn and explore together. While one child is in ballet, another may be painting in Studio B, and at the same time a mother might join a writing circle or confidence workshop. This dual-class system makes Layali one of Bahrain’s most family-friendly creative centers.

Rooted in Bahrain, Open to the World

Layali embraces the island’s cultural richness while opening doors to global ideas. We welcome partnerships, guest workshops, and cultural exchanges that connect Bahrain with the wider GCC arts and education community. At the heart of Layali Arts Center in Bahrain is ballet — the art of discipline, grace, and self-expression. From the first plié to the thrill of performance, ballet and creative dance give children and adults the tools to discover confidence, balance, and strength. In Studio A, movement is the foundation where artistry meets resilience.

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Layali Arts Center is more than classes. It is a space for creativity, community, and confidence in Bahrain. A place where ballet, arts, and writing come together — where every plié, every brushstroke, and every story adds to a shared journey.

And now, we invite you to be part of it.


Decorative black square with the names "Marija & Farrah" written in script font.
Layali Arts Center offers ballet classes

Ballet comes alive at Layali

At Layali Arts Center in Seef, Bahrain, Studio A is the heart of our dance and movement program. Designed with professional flooring, mirrors, and a safe learning environment, lead by Marija Rakic Dotti, Vaganova Perm State Trained in Russia, and a member of the CID Council of UNESCO, is where children, teens, and adults discover the elegance of ballet, the rhythm of contemporary, and the joy of movement.

  • Professional dance studio designed for performance and practice

  • Classes for all ages, starting from 3 years old through adults

  • Small group sizes for focused learning

  • Options for private training alongside group classes

  • Convenient central location in Seef, Bahrain, accessible from Manama, Saar, and Budaiya

Whether your child is just beginning their ballet journey or preparing for advanced performance, Studio A at Layali Arts Center is where passion for dance grows.

  • Ballet Classes by Age Group

    • Baby Ballet (Age 3–4) – Gentle, playful introduction to rhythm, balance, and movement.

    • Pre-Ballet (Age 5–7) – Builds coordination, musicality, and basic ballet foundations.

    • Primary Ballet (Age 7–9) – Focus on posture, discipline, and classical ballet technique.

    • Level 1 Ballet (Age 10–11) – Expands strength, flexibility, and alignment.

    • Level 2 Ballet (Age 11–12) – Develops technique, performance skills, and stamina.

    • Level 3 Ballet (Age 12–14) – More advanced training with emphasis on artistry and stage presence.

    • Intermediate Ballet (Age 15–17) – Intensive classes preparing older students for higher-level performance.

    • Contemporary Dance (12+ & Adults) – A dynamic style blending ballet technique with creative, expressive movement.

    • Adult Ballet – Elegant, structured classes designed for strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.

  • We also offer private ballet sessions in Studio A. Perfect for exam preparation, performance coaching, or personalized progress, private classes ensure focused attention from our instructors.

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Child's hand covered in blue paint, with some paint smeared or dripping, as part of a painting or art activity.

Creativity comes together

At Layali Arts Center,Studio B is the dedicated hub for arts, crafts, drama, writing, and creativity at designed to spark creativity, confidence and imagination. It complements Studio A’s ballet and movement classes by offering enrichment programs for children, teens, families, and adults.

Our creative writing classes lead by editor, writer and award-winning journalist, Farrah Francis are designed to spark curiosity.

Art classes are a joyful space where creativity comes to life and our Imagination Hour is a one-of-a-kind class designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds.

Community workshops are designed for adults and families who want to learn, connect, and grow. More than just classes, they are gatherings that celebrate creativity, culture, and support within Bahrain’s diverse community.

  • Fun, creative studio designed for creativity, joy and confidence

  • Classes for all ages, starting from 4 years old through to teen

  • Small group sizes for focused learning

  • Options for private training alongside group classes

  • Builds creativity, problem-solving, and focus

  • A safe, welcoming space in Seef for after-school fun

  • Perfect for budding artists and curious beginners alike

Ignite your children’s passions from an early age honing their reading and writing skills, sparking imagination and curiosity, building analytical skills, Studio B at Layali Arts Center is where confidence grows.


    • Imagination Hour: Create Your Own Story (Ages 4–6)

      Learning to express ideas through role-play.

      Strengthening imagination and creative thinking.

      Building early language and storytelling confidence.

    • Imagination Hour: Create Your Own Story (Ages 7–10)

      Creating original characters with backstories.

      Using teamwork to build collaborative stories.

      Enhancing presentation skills through acting out stories.

    • Story Writing (Ages 7–10) Building simple story structure

      Expanding vocabulary through descriptive writing.

      Developing confidence in sharing ideas aloud.

    • Story Writing (Ages 11–14)

      Using dialogue and character development.

      Learning to edit and refine drafts.

      Strengthening creative problem-solving through writing prompts.

    • Story Writing (Ages 14–18)

      Exploring tone, style, and voice in writing.

      Practicing critical thinking and structured arguments.

      Preparing longer, more advanced pieces (essays, short stories).

    • Young Reviewers Club (Ages 10+)

      Developing critical thinking through book, film, or art reviews.

      Learning to express opinions clearly in writing and discussion.

      Building public speaking confidence by presenting reviews.

  • Art for Kids (Ages 4–6)

    • Exploring colors, textures, and simple shapes through painting and crafts.

    • Building fine motor skills and hand–eye coordination.

    • Developing imagination and confidence in creative expression.

    Art for Kids (Ages 7–9)

    • Learning foundational drawing skills, shading, and use of patterns.

    • Practicing patience and attention to detail with structured projects.

    • Expressing personal ideas and storytelling through visual art.

    Art for Kids (Ages 10–12)

    • Understanding perspective, proportion, and composition in drawing.

    • Experimenting with paint, collage, and mixed media.

    • Building problem-solving and design-thinking skills.

    Art for Kids (Ages 10–13) (extended group option from your schedule)

    • Expanding artistic technique in painting and illustration.

    • Exploring cultural and thematic projects inspired by Bahrain and beyond.

    • Developing confidence through peer feedback and presentations.

    Art for Teens (Ages 14+)

    • Advancing technical skills in drawing, painting, and mixed media.

    • Developing a personal style and portfolio-ready projects.

    • Building confidence in critique, self-reflection, and public showcase of artwork.

  • Creative Writing for Adults

    • Explore journaling, storytelling, poetry, and memoir writing.

    • Practice self-expression and reflection through guided exercises.

    • Build confidence in sharing work within a supportive group.

    Art for Adults

    • Learn painting, crafts, and DIY projects designed for relaxation and creativity.

    • Experiment with different mediums and techniques.

    • Develop mindfulness and stress relief through hands-on art.

    Support Circles for Expat Moms

    • Connect with other mothers adjusting to life in Bahrain.

    • Share experiences on parenting away from extended family.

    • Build friendships, networks, and a sense of community.

    Confidence Through Communication

    • Practice public speaking and presentation in a safe environment.

    • Learn tools to ask questions with confidence in work and social settings.

    • Develop leadership presence and communication clarity.

    From Pen to Paycheck (Writing as a Skillset)

    • Learn how to turn writing into freelance, part-time, or full-time opportunities.

    • Understand how to pitch, publish, or monetize writing.

    • Build skills for career pivots or side income.

    Talks by Artists & Cultural Figures

    • Engage with visiting artists, authors, and thought leaders.

    • Learn about creative journeys and industry insights.

    • Ask questions and gain inspiration from Q&A sessions.

    Career Pivoting & Personal Growth Workshops

    • Explore new career paths or second careers with guidance.

    • Build confidence in decision-making and goal-setting.

    • Gain practical tools for transitioning into creative or community-driven roles.

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